Hale to step down as DoD finance chief

Jan. 31, 2014 - 03:46PM
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Pentagon Comptroller Bob Hale is stepping down after nearly 30 cumulative years of government service, including three years wearing a Navy uniform.

As the Defense Department’s top financial official since 2009, Hale has managed the Pentagon’s annual $600 billion budget and overseen policy, financial management systems and business modernization efforts through some of the stormiest budget years in recent memory.

Hale served as assistant secretary of the Air Force (Financial Management and Comptroller) during the Clinton Administration and headed the national security division at the Congressional Budget Office for 12 years.

The former Navy officer oversaw the Pentagon budget at a time when the department faced sequester reductions, a government shutdown and considerable belt-tightening.

In a statement to Military Times, Hale said he leaves the office with “decidedly mixed feelings.”

“With the help of a large number of outstanding men and women in the comptroller organization, and many others ... we have guided this department through some very turbulent times while also making progress on key initiatives,” Hale said.

On Friday, President Obama announced he has selected Michael McCord to replace Hale. McCord has been supporting Hale since 2009 as his principal deputy. He is a longtime Senate Armed Services Committee staffer, serving on Capitol Hill from 1987 to 2004.

Hale said the appointment of McCord brings continuity to the comptroller position.

“I am pleased Mike McCord has been nominated by the president ... if confirmed, Mike will bring continuity to the position, and I know he will do a great job,” Hale said.

Other nominations announced by the White House include:

■Christine Wormuth to be undersecretary of defense for policy.

■Brian McKeon to be principal deputy undersecretary of defense for policy.

■Miranda Ballentine to be assistant secretary of the Air Force for installations, environment, and logistics.